How a global VAR found a strategic ITAD partner

The ITAD challenges the global VAR faced

Historically, sales teams would use any ITAD provider they had a relationship with. That “free-for-all” model created several risks. The main being

• Inconsistent processes and reporting
• Exposure to potential data breaches and compliance issues
• No coherent chain of processes

After acquiring another large IT reseller in 2014, the client expanded its global footprint and service offering. They couldn’t sustain using multiple service providers. Yet, the client really struggled to find a reputable ITAD partner that could meet their UK and European needs with the right mix of security, sustainability and commercial value.

A strategic ITAD partner, not a one-off vendor

Then, following the acquisition of Re-Tek by Circular IT group and the integration into a wider European network in 2024, we were able to present a robust business case. Importantly, our strategy met their three core requirements:

• UK and EU–wide ITAD capability
• Local processing, consistent standards and shared systems
• The ability to support global customers with UK and European assets via one coordinated partner

Circular IT group implemented an all-encompassing ITAD service that covered standard ITAD recycling and disposal, with additional on-site shredding, data centre moves and office closures.

All safe, secure and certified.

To maximise the return for the client, we encouraged participation in our buy-back scheme. This meant the client received the residual value of old tech to reinvest in new infrastructure or hardware. Overall, lowering their total ownership.

The results of working with one ITAD partner

Operations only improved for the VAR after ditching the multiple vendors to work with a singular, reliable ITAD partner. Following years of being let down, Circular IT group measurably improved outcomes for the VAR’s IT strategy in three ways:

1. Zero data breach incidents

Since moving to Circular IT group, there have been no data breaches or compliance issues linked to our processing.

This has been instrumental in building trust with supplier management, sales teams and the client’s own employees and public sector customers.

2. Strong CSRD and high levels of reuse

Around 82% of all devices collected have been reused to some degree and resold. This means more value is recovered from each asset. Plus, there’s an evidence-based ESG story for both the client and their customers.

The client’s sustainability leadership has recognised this as a core part of their environmental strategy. Now, the company can offer practical examples of circular IT in action. Next, we are introducing IT donations through a trusted partner, Close the Gap, Digital for Youth or ITdonations.

3. Ease of lifecycle management

In the last 12 months, the relationship has gained strong traction in central government, defence, and large European customers with highly complex IT estates.

A key reason: Circular IT group was able to solve the client’s recurring lifecycle pain points with flexible, ad-hoc services that slot into their projects without friction.

These on-demand lifecycle services gave the client something they could not get from previous ITAD partners. A key solution could adapt quickly, support unusual project requirements, and keep enterprise customers satisfied without operational delays.

Consistency is key

Now, the client has one strategic ITAD partner that provides continuity across services, reporting, audits, and buy-back.

Ciricular IT group now manages 70% of all their UK ITAD requirements. We sit alongside a small number of other providers on their preferred supplier list and operate as their key ITAD partner.